Sailing

Part of going AWOL is getting away from the interruptions of the day-the cell phone, the computer, and people who demand your attention (they would even if you were in a yoga class)-so sailing is an amazing experience with new focus. Originally we talked of doing an overnight to Pt. Townsend (another great escape) but it seemed no one had the time-too many commitments...The list of those who were able to join us dwindled, and eventually there were 5 of us left including my brother, Robin and wife, Karen, Debbie, my friend from Japan (well that was nearly 40 yrs ago), Sue (our children grew up together (that was nearly 30 yrs ago-the kids are married now), and ME, and Deb's dog, Delila.
We arrived at the Everett marina after blueberry pancakes and a goodbye to Dad, and Hanna and Dean who leave from Bellingham today to fly home to San Diego. We packed combined picnic lunch of smoked salmon, pasta salad, special banana bread, sub sandwiches, chips and bottle of wine. Since the winds are always unpredictable, Rob suggested we eat while the boat was still flat, so we chowed before heading out into 16 knot winds. The weather had cooled from Seafair hot week to the 80's. I donned my sweatshirt but left the bald head exposed for a dose of vitamin D. The day did not disappoint us as we glided by the buoy we saw a lonely sea lion basking in the sun flanked by huge navy ships seemingly abandoned.
Each of us got a lesson on sailing the boat and careless abandon lead to serious concentration of the power of the wind. The expressions on the faces changed and we spoke of scary times in our past, death, and things that we fear. The music took us to the 70's and 80's and I noticed with some anticipation that individuals would isolate themselves and drift off into thought mesmerized by the waves, water, and sparkling sunshine reflection. The enormity of the world dissected into one small and beautiful segment for us to revel in and reflect on. Both the time out and learning moments were gifts to the beauty of the day. We laughed without abandon and headed into lighted breezes between Camano and Whidby Islands-Saratogo Passage.
Six hours passed quickly. Robin docked perfectly, backing his 47 foot sailboat into his slip surrounded by equally expensive boat and new dock at the marina. We headed to Skuttlebutt, the local brewery, for a great dinner of shrimp, fish and chips, and local beer.